How do you wear that new Proenza Schouler mini that you splurged on at Bergdorf last weekend without bumping into three fashionistas in the same look?
Add a vintage accessory!
Shopping for vintage accessories can be so budget-friendly! Consignment stores sell second-hand designer steals at gasp-worthy deals. Many sellers are women who have serious shopping addictions (meaning, price tags are still dangling), or women in the fashion industry trying to cleanse their closets.
These stores can look unappealing at first. You peak through the dusted window and notice old cowboy boots and a sequin shift that is best suited for a Halloween drag costume. Walk in, introduce yourself to the sales associate, and ask for a tour of the best designer pieces. Chances are, they will take you straight to a patent Chanel runway handbag from the ’80s, a wide-brim black felted hat from an unknown Paris designer, or Gucci broken cuff links that you can re-work into stud earrings. [Ok, so those are just some of my personal finds]. Inspect the piece, ask for the best price, and walk home with a one-of-a-kind stunner to turn your lifeless Proenza mini into a look oozing with texture, confidence, and history!
Fortunately for us, someone’s trash is our new best friend.
A few of my favorite vintage stores in New York are:
Los Angeles:
Visit her Fashion blog at www.elshane.com
